Three separate investigations are conducted by the Police, NHDA, and Anuradhapura Government Agent into the alleged destruction of archaeological monuments at Balumgala in the Ipologama Divisional Secretariat Division.
Anuradhapura Government Agent R.M. Wanninayaka said that after an initial investigation, the Ipologama Divisional Secretary was transferred to Palugaswewa.
The GA said the lot 15 and 17 of the Pugollagma final village plan were damaged with the excavation. He said the Plot 17 is an archaeological reservation to the extent of 2.464 hectares and the Plot 17 is about 28.779 hectares. He said these plots can be used for public needs.
However, Anuradhapura Additional Government Agent Keerthi Gamage said the Divisional Secretary has provided only the recommendations. Anuradhapura District Archaeology Director S. Senanayke said a complaint was lodged at the office regarding the unauthorized excavations at the 15-acre land and that irreparable damages were caused to archaeological monuments in the process. He said an investigation into the issue will be held and the value of the damaged monuments would be recovered from the responsible parties.